Bio-identical hormones are very different from synthetic treatments, sometimes having opposite cellular effects. Natural hormones compounded from plant materials with the same structure that the body produces. Synthetic hormones are quite different. Some commonly prescribed hormones are Premarin and Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate). Premarin is used to replace estrogen and is derived from pregnant horses. It is largely reported that women that begin Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) see an improved quality of life due to the relief of the symptoms associated with peri-menopause or menopause. Many symptoms of menopause can truly affect daily living such as hot flashes, weight gain, loss of libido, lethargy to name a few. Women also describe changes in their skin, hair and vaginal dryness as menopause approaches.
Testosterone is often overlooked as an important part of menopause treatment. Low Testosterone levels are responsible for lack of energy, depression, anxiety and incontinence. Adequate levels of testosterone are optimal for mental as well as physical health. It helps to increase lean body mass and decrease body fat. Illnesses such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s may have association with low testosterone levels.
Several practitioners choose to treat patients with BHRT pellet therapy. Pellets deliver a consistent level of hormone(s) to the body over a period of a few months. Pellets are implanted subcutaneously and may not be as likely as oral hormone replacement for risks of blood clots. Implanted pellets are very convenient for patients, since there is nothing to remember other than implantation/lab appointments.
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is a treatment process where the hormones that you are low in are replaced to restore the natural balance and rhythm of your body. Hormones exist is a delicate balance, it is not enough to replace one hormone. This process should be carefully monitored in an ongoing effort to evaluate symptoms and lab values. Your hormone composition is unique to you specifically.
Do you feel exhausted or abnormally stressed out? Do you have hot flashes, night sweats or unusually high anxiety? These symptoms could be related to hormone deficiency. Find a practitioner that specializes in BHRT to run the appropriate tests for you to see if you could be a good candidate for treatment. Make sure the practitioner has experience and specific training in BHRT. Also, keep track of your symptoms as well as symptom relief while you are getting treatment. It is important to keep track of what is working and lets the practitioner know how to dose you properly to more quickly achieve your quality of life again!
